In Physical Science Classes the main 1x2 stud brick was measured in cm with vernier calipers by each group of my students. Each group calculated the volume of the main 1x2 stud brick. An average volume for the 1x2 stud brick obtained from all the groupsí calculations was then used for all groupsí subsequent estimations and calculations. Volumes of each block type in the horse were estimated based on this average volume of the measured 1x2 stud block. Volumes, in cubic centimeters, of each block type were then added together to obtain the estimated volume of the horse. Students were required to list measurement and calculation data in an organized data table. I provided the blank data table so that grading would not be a nightmare for me! (The volume of the studs was not considered unless it was a class of students who were more mathematically astute and the assumption was made that bricks were solid.) In pre-Algebra and remedial Math classes the methodology was essentially the same except measurement was in fractions of an inch. Volumes of each block type in the horse were estimated and listed as fractions of the main 1x2 stud block. Students were required to show calculations using fractions instead of decimals, thus giving them needed fraction practice. Both teens and adults enjoyed this activity! :)

Hello Topsy, my return visit is not the first, but on further times I got no idea for a comment... (This happens!) This one caught my eye because I only know a "ship in a bottle", as it's common here in Northern Germany. But I never saw a horse in such a bin! Your explanation is helpful and your students can be happy about such an unconventional academic, living academic freedom there and here on MOCpages... Beeing logic as Spock, next step would be a sea horse in a jar, or a pygmy seahorse, if the bottle is a little one...
But that's of cause relative, anyway! ;)

Quoting DeTomaso Pantera
Awww cute horsey in jar :-) Thanks for liking my Ellie but you forgot to "like", if you know what I mean ;-)

I had to go back and look at my one comment on my 'Elephant Ears Enhancement'. I remembered it was you, and that you said you liked elephants. I like elephants too, but I do like horses better! Oh, and elephants don't fit as easily into jars! :)